Angola is mediating the DRC crisis by promoting direct talks between Kinshasa and the M23 rebel group. Following a recent meeting, the Angolan government announced plans for negotiations in Luanda. The situation has escalated as M23 rebels capture key cities, with Rwanda’s alleged role remaining contentious. Upcoming regional summits aim to address the ongoing conflict.
Angola is proactively mediating the ongoing crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) by facilitating direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23 rebel group. Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Angolan President João Lourenço met recently in Luanda to discuss potential dialogues aimed at achieving peace. Following their discussions, Angola’s presidency announced plans to connect with the M23 to arrange direct negotiations in Luanda, seeking a lasting resolution to the conflict.
The situation in eastern DRC escalated considerably as M23 rebels captured key cities in North and South Kivu, contributing to a protracted conflict that traces back to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition for local mineral resources. Despite Angola’s mediating efforts, tensions persist particularly regarding Rwanda’s alleged involvement. The Rwandan government has denied claims of providing support to M23 rebels, maintaining that its military actions are defensive due to hostilities from Congolese forces.
Previously, the Congolese government was hesitant to engage directly with M23, preferring to negotiate with Rwanda, whom President Tshisekedi labeled the “master” of the rebel group. However, following the recent discussions with Angola, Congolese officials indicated they are now open to exploring this Angolan-led approach.
To further discussions surrounding the DRC crisis, a Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit is scheduled, along with an 8th EU-South Africa summit set for March 13 and a United Nations Security Council meeting focused on the DRC on April 4. These events may help steer international focus towards resolving the conflict in eastern DRC.
In summary, Angola’s mediating efforts signify an important step towards initiating direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23 rebels amid an escalating conflict in eastern DRC. While previous reluctance from the Congolese government has been evident in discussions with the M23, the recent meeting with Angola’s leadership might open new pathways for peace talks. The upcoming summits and discussions on this crisis will likely shape future diplomatic strategies as the region strives for stability.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
